Voigt's writing, so well-crafted, disappears and invites readers to watch events unfold, as if on a most extraordinary stage. Drama envelops Max, the main character, from the outset. How can he possibly handle grown-up responsibility while trying to untangle the baffling disappearance of his eccentric, though beloved parents? One courageous step after another leads Max to unlikely discoveries -- misplaced blame, hidden truth, unjust expectation. But mostly, Max discovers his gift, challenging readers to walk in his shoes and do the same. An outstanding first in a series of three. In the first of a rollicking mystery series by a Newbery Medalist, Max Starling's parents are missing. Over the course of three books, Max will find them, and embark on a daring rescue. Max lives by his own wits, inventing a job for himself as "the solutioneer." Illustrations.